You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety website without visiting a DPS office
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you order a replacement license online if your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs $11, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method — the system accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
The online replacement option works only if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago. If your license expired more than two years ago, you'll need to renew it in person at a DPS office instead. The online system also won't work if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your address — those situations require an in-person visit.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a replacement license online through the Texas DPS website if your current license is valid or expired within the last two years.
- The replacement costs $11, takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail, and requires only your Social Security number and date of birth.
- Online replacement works for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses, but not for suspended, revoked, or expired-over-two-years licenses.
- If you need to change your address at the same time, you must visit a DPS office in person instead of using the online system.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to the Texas DPS website. You'll need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Have a valid credit or debit card ready — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover. The $11 fee will be charged to whichever card you enter.
Make sure you know your current mailing address. The replacement license will be sent to the address on file with DPS. If you've moved recently and haven't updated your address yet, you'll need to do that in person at a DPS office before ordering online, or your new license will arrive at your old address.
Steps to order your replacement license online
Go to the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver License" section. Click on "Order a Replacement License Online." You'll be taken to a find form where you enter your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The system will pull up your current license information to confirm your identity.
Review the information on screen to make sure it's correct — especially your name, date of birth, and mailing address. If anything is wrong, stop and contact DPS before paying. Once you confirm the information is accurate, select the reason your license needs to be replaced (lost, stolen, or damaged) and proceed to payment.
Enter your credit or debit card information and complete the transaction. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Save both. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Standard mail delivery means you won't receive tracking information, so plan accordingly if you need your license by a specific date.
When you cannot use the online system
The online replacement option is not available if your license expired more than two years ago. In that case, you're renewing rather than replacing, and renewal requires an in-person appointment at a DPS office. You also cannot use the online system if your license was suspended or revoked — you'll need to resolve that issue with DPS before ordering a replacement.
If you need to change your address, add a Real ID designation, or update any other information on your license, the online system won't let you do that. You must visit a DPS office in person for those changes. If you're changing your address and need a replacement at the same time, you can do both in one visit.
What happens after you order
After you complete your order, DPS will process it within one business day. Your replacement license will then be printed and mailed to your address on file. Standard U.S. mail delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during holidays or if your address is in a remote area. DPS does not provide tracking numbers for replacement licenses sent by mail.
If your replacement license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to check the status. Have your confirmation number ready. If your license was stolen and you're concerned about identity theft, you can also file a report with the Texas Attorney General's office while you wait for your replacement to arrive.
If you need your license faster
The online system does not offer expedited shipping. If you need a replacement license in fewer than 7 to 10 days, you must visit a DPS office in person. DPS offices can issue a temporary paper license on the spot, which is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive by mail. Some offices can also print a permanent license when ready if you have an appointment.
To find a DPS office near you, go to dps.texas.gov and search for "office locations." You can schedule an appointment online or call ahead to ask about wait times. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and payment for the replacement fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the online system if my license is suspended?
No. You cannot order a replacement online if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DPS office in person and resolve the suspension or revocation before you can get a replacement license. Contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do.
What if I moved and my address on file is wrong?
If your mailing address with DPS is outdated, your replacement license will be sent to the old address. You must update your address in person at a DPS office before ordering online, or wait until your replacement arrives and then visit an office to get a corrected license with your new address.
Do I need to bring anything to the mailbox when my license arrives?
No. Your replacement license will arrive in a plain envelope by regular mail. You don't need to sign for it or be home at a specific time. Open the envelope and check that all information is correct. If anything is wrong, contact DPS to request a corrected license.
Can I order a replacement if my license expired more than two years ago?
No. Licenses expired more than two years are considered expired for renewal purposes, not replacement. You must renew your license in person at a DPS office. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee.
What if I lose my replacement license before it arrives?
Contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789 with your confirmation number. DPS can stop the original order and issue a new one, though you may be charged an additional fee. If the original license has already been mailed, you can still order a second replacement once the first one arrives.